Question

Explain

-Differentiate the concepts of patient-centeredness and patient empowerment

-Methods of implementing patient-centeredness and patient empowerment approaches in the clinical setting

Answer 1

Ans) Patient empowerment appears to be broader than patient-centeredness, and may place greater demands on caregivers and the organisation of healthcare. Patient-centeredness and patient empowerment are complementary concepts which do not oppose one-another.

Patient empowerment and centredness are necessary on all levels to build high quality and sustainable European healthcare systems.
Achieving high levels of patient empowerment and centredness requires a complete shift in mind-set over healthcare design and delivery. It also challenges European healthcare systems, requiring
specific strategies, including embedding meaningful patient involvement in every level of every healthcare system. The Committee recognises that this will be no easy task.
However, change is needed, as empowered patients have proved to be an enduring force that can have an ever higher impact on healthcare systems. Patients can take more responsibility for their care by collaborating with healthcare professionals, adopting preventive measures, seeking earlier
diagnoses, and adhering to treatment. These actions will bear fruit in the long run.

Methods can be adopted are:

- Integrated care: Providing administrative guidance, tools and incentives for further expansion can help countries and regions lagging behind to develop working solutions based on local needs.

- Self management & Continuing care: Access to quality and evidence-based
programmes so that citizens can develop the confidence, knowledge and skills to actively manage their health. Although different conditions require different approaches, supporting self-management can alleviate the pressure on health and social services caused by workforce
shortages, rising demand for services, demographic change and budgetary constraints.

- Shared Decision making: Establishing and reporting principles of shared decision-
making, can help healthcare systems at national level evaluate the quality of treatment provided.
• The Committee further proposes the implementation of training programs for healthcare professionals and patients in the principles of shared decision-making. These could increase the efficiency and effectiveness of interactions between patients, their families and healthcare
professionals.